Western New England University celebrated entrepreneurial excellence on March 27, 2025, with a special induction ceremony for the Sigma Nu Tau national academic entrepreneurship honor society. The event recognized both established community leadership and the promising potential of student innovators.
Sir Charles T. Evans, founder of the 413 Elite Professional Basketball Team, was inducted as an Honorary Entrepreneur member. A Springfield native with a rich background in collegiate and professional basketball, Evans has made a significant impact on the local community by bringing professional basketball to the city. His efforts through the 413 Elite and the 413 Elite Foundation focus on providing opportunities for personal and professional growth, nurturing talent, and contributing to the region's economic development.
"The 413 Elite and 413 Elite Foundation are organizations that were developed for Western Mass to provide opportunities for personal and professional growth, nurture talent, and contribute to the city’s economic development," Evans stated during the ceremony.
Mary Schoonmaker, faculty advisor for Western New England's Sigma Nu Tau Chapter, highlighted Evans's collaborative spirit and dedication to the university. "This past year, Evans worked closely with Western New England University to bring his entrepreneurial and athletic talents to our classroom and our student athletes. It is his abundance for giving to others and his entrepreneurial spirit that we recognize him as this year’s Sigma Nu Tau’s Entrepreneurial recipient," Schoonmaker explained.
In addition to honoring Evans, three exceptional entrepreneurship students, Ashley Armstrong, Brianna Lani, and Kaila Mank, were inducted into Sigma Nu Tau. This prestigious honor society, founded in 2009 at SUNY Plattsburgh and now affiliated with USASBE, boasts nearly 50 chapters nationwide, including institutions such as Kent State, The George Washington University, the University of Arizona, and Penn State University. Sigma Nu Tau's vision is to cultivate a network of well-educated entrepreneurs committed to ethical and positive impacts on businesses, consumers, and the global economy.
Evans delivered an inspiring speech to the attendees, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, giving back, personal growth, and leaving a lasting legacy. Members of the 413 Elite team were also present to celebrate the occasion. Each honor society recipient, including Evans, received a certificate, pin, and lifelong membership, signifying their contributions to the field of entrepreneurship.
The induction ceremony underscored Western New England University’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial spirit and recognizing individuals who drive innovation and community development.
